Highly Anticipated Hollow Knight: Silksong Joins Ranks of Recent Metroidvania Standouts
The release of Hollow Knight: Silksong today arrives amidst a surge of critically acclaimed “Metroidvania” titles, a genre defined by interconnected worlds, exploration, and ability-gated progression. Recent games have demonstrated the enduring appeal of this formula,continually refining and innovating within established boundaries.
as noted nearly a year ago, quality Metroidvanias evoke “a pervasive feeling that there might potentially be something mysterious and inexhaustible around each turn.”
Metroid Dread, released in 2021, reaffirmed the series’ foundational influence. Players once again embody bounty hunter Samus Aran, exploring a opposed planet for upgrades and powerful weapons. A key feature is the constant sense of danger, with relentless robotic pursuers adding intense pressure. “Metroid Dread is nerve-wracking,intense and not least incredibly satisfactory,” declared Øyvind Steinkopf Sund. “The growing sense of mastery you get from constantly conquering new parts of the map, unlocking shortcuts, getting new powers and kneading ever stronger monsters (robots and more!), Is simply absolutely amazing.”
primal Planet offers a unique premise, blending dinosaurs, aliens, and time travel. While adhering to core Metroidvania elements, it distinguishes itself with its striking pixel art style and charming character design. “You really get the feeling of jumping around in an old, bygone era, and that in a game and almost naive way that wakes back the same feeling I got when I played similar games one time in the early 90s,” saeid Øystein Furevik.”It is both nostalgic and fresh in one and the same time.”
The question now is whether Hollow Knight: Silksong will measure up to this extraordinary company. A review is forthcoming.
